Riverside Photo

University, Riverside,CA

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

University, Riverside, CA, is a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood that offers a unique blend of college-town energy and suburban comfort. Known for its close proximity to the University of California, Riverside, this area buzzes with youthful enthusiasm, cultural events, and a diverse culinary scene. Residents enjoy easy access to the UCR campus, which hosts numerous cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and public lectures throughout the year, making it a lively place for students, families, and professionals alike. The neighborhood itself is dotted with cozy coffee shops, trendy eateries, and bookstores, perfect for those who love a casual, community-focused lifestyle.

Situated in the southeastern part of Riverside, University is conveniently close to Downtown Riverside, just a short 10-minute drive away. This makes it incredibly easy for residents to enjoy the historic downtown’s charming shops, theaters, and vibrant nightlife without sacrificing the quieter pace of their own neighborhood. Additionally, the area boasts beautiful parks such as Fairmount Park, where families can picnic, walk, or enjoy outdoor sports. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Santa Ana River Trail provides excellent opportunities for biking and jogging, blending urban living with easy access to nature.

One of the standout features of University is its strong sense of community. The neighborhood regularly hosts farmers’ markets, street fairs, and live music events that bring neighbors together. Plus, with the UC Riverside Botanical Gardens just around the corner, residents have a peaceful retreat filled with exotic plants and stunning landscapes to explore. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or a family looking to relocate, University offers a welcoming environment that balances educational opportunities, recreational activities, and a vibrant local culture all within easy reach of Riverside’s downtown amenities.

Community Snapshot

Population 21,730
Density (People/sqml.) 2,266
Median Age 28.1
Married Couples
31%
31% of the population of University aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
22%
22% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 31% of the University population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 22% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

University neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring University demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. University has a population of 21,730, which is larger than many other Riverside neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

University has a population density of 2,266, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Riverside neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With a lower-than-average age of 28, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

Crime in University

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

University neighborhood age breakdown chart

University Crime Map

The University crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $433,987
Median Rent $1,703
People/Household 2.9

Home Price Breakdown

University neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 72% Own 28%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 62% After 2010 38%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In University, home prices come in around $433,987, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in University can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,703, rental rates in University are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Lothian Residential Restaurant
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Regency Theater- University Village
Cinema
min.
min.
UCR Botanic Gardens
Attraction
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Afters
Sweets
min.
min.
Rubio's
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Uncle Chuang's Bakery
Bakery
min.
min.
Goodwin's Organics
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Highlander Lawn Park
Park
min.
min.
Highland Park
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Mobil
Convenience Store
min.
min.
7-Eleven
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

C
Bus Stop
min.
min.
B
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Campus Health Center
Clinic
min.
min.
Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Safety

Police
Police
min.
min.
Riverside Fire Department Station #4
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Grand Terrace High Sch At The Ray Abril Jr. Edal Complex
21810 Main St., Grand Terrace, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
University Heights Middle
1155 Massachusetts Ave., Riverside, CA
Elementary School 7 - 8 School Score
Reach Leadership Steam Academy
4850 Jurupa Ave., Riverside, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score
Polytechnic High
5450 Victoria Ave., Riverside, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
John W. North High
1550 W. Third St., Riverside, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Big Springs Center & School
41769 Enterprise Cir N, Temecula, CA
Elementary School 2 - 8 School Score
Abraham Lincoln Continuation
4341 Victoria Ave., Riverside, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like University. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in University offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $25,379
Household Income $70,576
Unemployment 6.5%

Income Breakdown

University Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in University average around $70,576, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In University, the unemployment rate is 7%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

The University neighborhood in Riverside is best known for its vibrant atmosphere centered around the University of California, Riverside (UCR) campus. Highlights include the UCR Botanic Gardens, which feature diverse plant collections and walking trails, and the Fox Performing Arts Center, offering a variety of cultural events and performances. The area also boasts numerous coffee shops, restaurants, and bookstores catering to students and residents alike.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, the University neighborhood hosts several community events throughout the year. Popular gatherings include the annual UCR Arts Block Festival, showcasing local artists and musicians, and the Riverside Festival of Lights during the holiday season. Additionally, the neighborhood often participates in university-led events such as farmers markets and cultural celebrations that foster community engagement.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

The University neighborhood is conveniently located near major highways, including the 215 Freeway, which provides easy access to other parts of Riverside and the Inland Empire. Public transit options include Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) bus lines that connect the neighborhood to Downtown Riverside, UCR campus, and surrounding areas. This makes commuting and exploring the city quite accessible for residents.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 31 39 80 82 74 51 56
Unlock to see 75 42 90 58 61 45 89 90
Unlock to see 68 58 53 69 53 79 49 58
University Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 61 66 69 73 62 90 48
Unlock to see 36 37 77 80 42 30 39 56
Unlock to see 25 61 84 54 58 82 36 64

Other Neighborhoods in Riverside, CA